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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
classes commencing
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "classes commencing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate the start of classes, often in an academic or educational context. Example: "The new semester is approaching, and we are excited to announce that classes commencing on September 1st will cover a variety of subjects."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
60 human-written examples
Classes commenced in 1890.
Encyclopedias
The buildings were completed, and the first classes commenced in May 1857.
Wiki
Classes commenced on January 2 , 1792 with around 69 students attending in its first year.
Wiki
One early morning in 2004, Phinda employees came to visit the school, arriving just before classes commenced, and parked under the Principal's tree, not knowing that this was her classroom.
News & Media
The classes commenced during the third trimester of pregnancy.
We used detailed and timely explanation of student expectations in the first weeks of university study, well before disrobing in practical classes commenced.
Science
This observation was most likely due to the increased workload in spring due increase in the volume of the learning material because classes commence in fall of each year.
Science
That way, both you and your child will feel comfortable with knowing her or him before class commences.
Wiki
The U-boat was the first of her class to commence operations when she entered service on 27 March 1915.
Wiki
At the beginning of class, which commenced around 10pm, JSMN presented this whole Powerpoint presentation, talking through the history of herself via the cutest throwback pictures of a baby JSMN, holding bejeweled microphones in vintage Nike tees.
News & Media
The class will commence with 10 minutes of group warm-up exercises.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When writing formally about the start of an academic term or specific courses, "classes commencing" can add a touch of sophistication. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing; simpler alternatives like "classes starting" may be more appropriate in less formal contexts.
Common error
While "classes commencing" is grammatically correct, overuse in casual communication can sound stilted. Reserve this phrase for formal announcements, academic papers, or official correspondence where a more elevated tone is suitable.
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "classes commencing" functions as a noun phrase ("classes") followed by a present participle ("commencing") acting as an adjective, modifying the noun. Although Ludwig provides real-world examples of usage, the frequency is low.
Frequent in
Science
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News & Media
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Formal & Business
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Less common in
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Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "classes commencing" is a grammatically correct way to indicate the beginning of classes. While Ludwig AI affirms its usability, its usage is relatively infrequent and leans towards formal contexts, as evidenced by its presence in academic and scientific sources. More common alternatives, such as "classes starting" or "classes beginning", may be more suitable for informal communication. Consider the audience and the overall tone of your writing when choosing between these options to maintain clarity and appropriateness.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
classes beginning
Replaces "commencing" with the more common synonym "beginning".
classes starting
Substitutes "commencing" with the simpler and more informal "starting".
courses starting
Replaces "classes" with "courses" while using the synonym "starting" for "commencing".
lessons beginning
Substitutes "classes" with "lessons" and "commencing" with "beginning", altering the phrasing slightly.
sessions starting
Replaces "classes" with "sessions", implying a more specific or short-term educational setting.
lectures beginning
Replaces "classes" with "lectures", focusing on a specific type of class.
instruction starting
Uses a more general term "instruction" to replace "classes", indicating the start of teaching.
academic sessions commencing
Adds the adjective "academic" to emphasize the formal educational context.
the start of classes
Restructures the phrase to emphasize the "start" as a noun.
inauguration of classes
Uses "inauguration" for a more formal and ceremonial sense of starting classes.
FAQs
What does "classes commencing" mean?
The phrase "classes commencing" means that classes are beginning or starting. It's a more formal way to announce the start of courses or instructional sessions.
When is it appropriate to use "classes commencing"?
It's appropriate to use "classes commencing" in formal settings such as official announcements, academic communications, or when addressing a professional audience. Simpler alternatives like "classes starting" or "classes beginning" are more suitable for informal contexts.
What are some alternatives to "classes commencing"?
Alternatives include "classes starting", "classes beginning", "courses starting", or simply saying the "start of classes".
Is "classes commencing" more formal than "classes starting"?
Yes, "classes commencing" is generally considered more formal than "classes starting". The word "commencing" itself carries a more formal tone compared to the more common and straightforward "starting".
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
78%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested